June Activities and Events at the Villages of Citrus Hills

Summer has officially arrived, and we are getting ready to enjoy every minute of it here at the Villages of Citrus Hills. While many of our friends and neighbors are spending their time up north over the next few months, there will be no shortage of exciting entertainment from the planners at the Activity Center.

If you are looking for fun opportunities to socialize with other members of our community, there will be many.

If competitive golf or tennis is what you are looking for, you can find it here.

And if a delicious dinner is what you are craving, we have got you covered there as well.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the biggest and best activities and events happening around the Villages of Citrus Hills this month.

Social Events

Sports fans will be “in the know” at this month’s Tasty Trivia Tuesday on June 18 in the Hampton Room. The menu will include Sliced Turkey with Stuffing and Baked Ham with Pineapple Raisin Sauce, and all of the questions will be sports-related this month.

There will also be a brand new social event this month when Musical Bingo takes over the Activity Center on Thursday, June 20. This fun version of bingo features song titles and artists on the cards with a DJ playing clips instead of traditional bingo balls.

Art & Education

Betty’s Boutique will be hosting a fun Citrus Hills Fashion Show event in the Hampton Room on Thursday, June 13. Members attending this event will get to see all of the hottest summer fashion trends while enjoying a Citrus Chicken Salad with Warm Rolls and Key Lime Pie.  

Lunch & Learn will be back in the Garden Room on Tuesday, June 25. This month’s topic will be a Healthy Cooking Demo from The Grove Health & Rehabilitation Center, and the meal will include a delicious Plant-Based Burger and Air-Fried Sweet Potatoes. 

On Wednesday, June 26, Dr. Apama Bapat from Ayurveda Alternative Medicine will be leading a discussion on “The Science of Life” as part of the latest installment of Doc Talk.

Golf & Tennis

The biggest golf event of the month will be the Skyview Men’s Pinehurst Tournament taking place on June 10 and 11. This will be a two-man team event where all players hit from the white tees.

If your game isn’t quite up to competition level, then you’ll want to participate in one of the Free Golf Clinics with Mary Slinkard. She will be leading clinics for beginners on June 3, 4, and 5. Then the intermediate clinics will be back on June 11, 18, and 25. 

Anyone looking to get out on the tennis court for the first time this summer will want to attend the Free Beginner Tennis Clinic at the Skyview Tennis Center on Tuesday, June 11. As usual, the only requirement to participate is a pair of tennis shoes.

Dinner Specials

June is going to be a big month for steak lovers here at the Villages of Citrus Hills. Skyview Restaurant will be hosting Steak Nights on June 13 and 27, as well as a Prime Rib Feature every Saturday this month. Then The Grille will be serving up a selection of steaks during the Belmont Stakes (Get it? Steaks/Stakes?) on Saturday, June 8.

Other specials that you won’t want to miss at Skyview Restaurant this month include a Greek Night Buffet on Thursday, June 6 and a Spring Faire menu every Friday in June.

And if you are looking for a perfect Father’s Day destination on Sunday, June 16, The Grille is going to be offering some outstanding entrees that dad will love.

BellaVita Spa

June is also a perfect month to spend some quiet time indoors at BellaVita Spa, and they will be running a Father’s Day Massage Special and a Brightening Peel Special all month long.

No matter how you plan to spend your free time during the month of June, there are plenty of fun options in front of you here at the Villages of Citrus Hills. And don’t be afraid to try something a little outside your comfort zone this month!

Day Trip: 24 Hours in Cedar Key

Located just over an hour northwest of the Villages of Citrus Hills, Cedar Key is a quaint beachfront community that fully embraces the "Old Florida" lifestyle. You won't find many chain stores or restaurants here, but you will find a unique little town that is always a fun place to visit.  

If you have been looking for a different destination for your next day trip, Cedar Key offers the perfect combination of close proximity to our community, unique atmosphere to enjoy, and plenty of fun things to do.  

Let's take a walk through what a perfect day trip to Cedar Key might look like for a resident here at the Villages of Citrus Hills.  

Morning Activity: Cedar Key Fishing Pier 

After enjoying a beautiful drive up the Gulf Coast, you will find yourself pulling into Cedar Key at just about the perfect time for a morning stroll down the Cedar Key Fishing Pier.  

This trip is all about embracing the relaxing charm of "Old Florida." And that is exactly what you are going to feel as you kick back and relax watching the fishermen in action on the pier.  

If you are an angler, you might feel compelled to cast a line yourself, but you don't have to fish here to enjoy the sights.  

Lunch: 83 West 

From the Cedar Key Fishing Pier, it is just a short walk over to one of the best lunches in town at 83 West. This unique restaurant offers two different experiences under one roof, but for lunch, we are going to focus on the more casual version downstairs.  

With everything from shrimp tacos and crab bites to smoked mullet dip and bourbon marinated gator kabobs on the menu, there is plenty of authentic local food to choose from.  

Afternoon Activity: Cedar Key Historical Society Museum 

After lunch, we are heading over to the Cedar Key Historical Society Museum to see the most popular tourist attraction in town. This friendly little museum does a great job telling the story of Cedar Key to anyone who might be interested.  

There are lots of local artifacts on display throughout the museum's self-guided tour, and at only $3 it is also one of the best deals in town as well.  

Dinner: Duncan's on the Gulf 

When dinner time rolls around, we are heading back to the Cedar Key Fishing Pier for reservations at Duncan's on the Gulf. This hidden gem is known for handling all things seafood-related, but they also have a fantastic selection of steaks and pasta dishes.  

If this is your first time dining at Duncan's, you can feel comfortable choosing any of the specials that might sound interesting. But if that doesn't do the trick for you, there are plenty of great entrees in the Island Dinner section of their menu.  

After enjoying two fabulous meals and a couple of fun destinations in Cedar Key, you are probably going to be ready to get home as quickly as possible. Fortunately for you, the Villages of Citrus Hills is only a little over an hour away, so you will be back home before you know it!

Around the World: 6 Local Restaurants with an International Flair

It's no secret that the Villages of Citrus Hills is surrounded by excellent restaurants of all types, but we don't always show proper appreciation for just how diverse that selection actually is.  

In order to highlight that diversity, we are going to take you on a quick trip around the globe to experience six different cultures without ever leaving the state of Florida.  

Is your appetite ready to handle this adventure?

 Cuban - Havana House Cafe

For the first stop on our world culinary tour, we are heading south to Cuba for a taste of the tropics at Havana House in Lecanto. The specialty here is the Traditional Cubano, which comes with Spanish ham, sliced or pulled pork, pickles, Swiss cheese, and mustard.  

If you are looking to get even more authentic with your dining choices, you will want to try the Lechon Asado. Or you could also order one of the delicious starters like Tostones Rellenos, Cuban Empanadas, or Caribbean Wings.  

French - La Cuisine French Restaurant 

When you are ready for a high-end meal, we're heading east across the Atlantic for some of the best French cuisine you've ever tasted. And it's right up the road in Ocala. La Cuisine French Restaurant is owned and operated by Patrice and Elodie Perron.

Patrice was raised in the heart of France, and he has always had a passion for the kitchen, which explains why everything served at his elegant restaurant tastes so phenomenal. Whether you opt for Duck A l'Orange, Bourguignon Beef, or Boneless Beef Short Ribs, you really can't make a wrong decision at La Cuisine.  

Italian - Mesa de Notte 

The next stop on our world tour is also located in Ocala, but the food has moved to Italy. Mesa de Notte offers a fantastic selection of Italian dishes that include all of the tried and true classics along with some interesting new twists.  

For those looking for the familiar options, there is Fettuccini Alfredo, Angelo Osso Bucco, and Chicken Parmigiana.

But if you are thinking about getting adventurous, there are also choices like Mahi Piccata.  

Mediterranean - Taverna Manos 

Our final stop for European flair on this world tour will be Taverna Manos in Crystal River. When you are in the mood for great Mediterranean food in Citrus County, this is always going to be one of the top places on the list.  

Like any great Mediterranean spot, the gyros are the star of the show at Taverna Manos, and they never disappoint. On top of serving world-class gyros, they also offer a wide range of other Mediterranean cuisine that will keep you coming back for more.  

Thai - Bangkok Thai 

This wouldn't be a world tour without a quick stop in Asia for some delicious Thai food, and that is exactly what we are going to find at Bangkok Thai in Beverly Hills.  

If you are a fan of Thai food, then you already know what to order. If this is going to be your first experience, start with the Spring Rolls and then take your pick from one of the curries or the Pad Thai.  

World Fusion 

This restaurant has been a great edition to the international theme in Citrus County.  World Fusion integrates fresh ingredients with Asian flavors for a unique and delicious fusion of cultures.  

In addition to sushi and sashimi, they also offer a variety of dishes from different Asian cultures, including traditional Japanese, Thai, and Chinese. The menu includes a variety of healthy choices, as well as many vegetarian friendly dishes. 

With all of the amazing ethic cuisine available here in Florida, residents at the Villages of Citrus Hills never have to go very far to find truly spectacular meals of all kinds. The only tricky part is choosing the right type of meal to fit your mood!

BellaVita May 2019 Connections

From our Director of BellaVita Spa and Fitness, Lee Thompson.

 Wow! The Spa at BellaVita is fabulous. If you didn’t make it to the open house, please stop by anytime to see it for yourself. It will be our pleasure to show you around.

We have added some new services to the nail menu. You can now get the Dipping Powder System and a full set of acrylics done in our beautiful new manicure and pedicure salon.

Our skincare menu has been completely redone as well. We still have some of the services offered in our previous spa services menu, but we have added numerous new services that usually are only seen at medical spas.

• Microcurrent - This treatment re-energizes cells and tightens facial muscles by increasing muscle protein. It uses an alternating electrical current that works beneath the sensory nerves to tone, lift and revitalize skin’s appearance.

• Paraffin Wax Treatment - Wax facials have the ability to clean your pores, moisturize your face and relax you like nothing else can.

• Skin Scrubber Facial Treatment - Gently exfoliates dead skin cells, infuses nutrients into the skin and nourishes the dermal layer while improving blood circulation. It stimulates the production of elastin and collagen.

• Hydrodermabrasion with Oxygen Infusion - This is the only procedure that combines cleansing, exfoliation, extraction, hydration and anti-oxidant protection simultaneously.

• Chemical Peels Level 1, 2, & 3 - These elegant formulas include a combination of multiple exfoliating Gycolic and Lactic Acids, extracts of exfoliating fruit acids, with willow herb, aloe and coconut charcoal.

• Microdermabrasion - Delivers a steady effective stream of fine crystals directly onto the skin, removing dead surface skin cells and promoting even healing.

• Microneedling - This treatment uses a pen-shaped electric device that employs fine needles to penetrate the surface of the skin to rebuild elasticity and reduce the size of pores.

• LED Light Therapy - This works by emitting infrared lights (causing heat), in different wavelengths/spectrums, which have multiple skincare benefits.  

We have also added a waxing specialist to our staff to take care of all your hair removal needs, and have Microblading for brows coming soon!

May Activities and Events at the Villages of Citrus Hills

Whether you are ready for it or not, the month of May has officially arrived, and we are getting ready to kick off another summer season here at the Villages of Citrus Hills.  During the summer months, we tend to slow down on outdoor activities like golf and tennis, but we also pick up on fun social events and great dinner specials. And no matter what type of fun you are looking for around the community, there is something for just about everyone in May.  

Let's jump into the details and take a quick look at some of the most exciting events and activities happening around the Villages of Citrus Hills this month.  

Social Events 

The social fun will kick off right away with a 1950s Prom Dance taking over the Activity Center Auditorium on Saturday, May 4. In order to make it feel just like the high school dance from "Back to the Future," the theme is going to be "Enchantment Under the Sea" and there will be prizes for the best costumes! 

On Friday, May 10, the Vacationers Club is planning a bus trip to Tampa to see the Tampa Bay Rays host the New York Yankees. The Rays are off to a hot start this year, and every game against the Yankees is going to be a close one, so this is a great chance to see the home team in action.  

If you're looking for a laugh, you won't want to miss comedian Alan Schubowsky performing in the Hampton Room on Tuesday, May 14. Alan has performed on huge stages all over the world, and he is going to be cracking up everyone in attendance for this special event.  

Tasty Trivia Tuesday will be back in the Hampton Room on Tuesday, May 21. Dinner this month will include Swiss Chicken, Bourbon Salmon, Potatoes Au Gratin, Broccoli with Red Pepper and Shallots, Salad, Rolls, and German Chocolate Cake.  

The biggest social event of May will actually be happening on the very last day of the month. That is when the Slice of Summer Poolside Party will be taking place at the Activity Center. DJ Benny Cruz will be playing all of your favorite songs by the pool at this exciting dance party under the stars.  

Arts & Education 

Dr. Trish Kallenbach will be speaking about Holistic Pet Nutrition in the Activity Center Auditorium on Tuesday, May 7 at 10 am. During her presentation, she will be covering everything you might want to know about how a healthier diet can improve your pet's lifestyle.  

The Healing Power of Music will be back in The Garden Room on Thursday, May 16 this month. Gayle Cohen will be focusing on topics like everyday stress, loss, divorce, and other issues while covering how music can help our bodies heal.  

Golf & Tennis 

The Oaks course will be hosting the Cinco de Mayo Open on Saturday, May 4 at 8:30 am. This will be one of the most enjoyable golf outings of the summer, so make sure you don't forget to sign up to participate.  

The more serious golf event this month will be the Men's Better Ball A/D - B/C tournament at Skyview on May 6 and 7. This exciting tournament is open to all Skyview members, and everyone will be playing from the white tees.  

If you are simply looking for a way to improve your golf game, we highly recommend heading out for one of the Free Golf Clinics with our resident expert, Mary Slinkard. There will be clinics for complete beginners on May 6, 7, and 8. Then there will be intermediate clinics on May 14, 21, and 28.  

The monthly Free Beginner Tennis Clinic at the Skyview Tennis Center will be happening on Tuesday, May 14 at 11 am. If you have been thinking about dusting off that old racket and need a refresher on some of the basics, this is the perfect place to get that.  

Dinner Specials 

Mother's Day meals are going to be big at Skyview Restaurant and The Grille this month. Both of our community restaurants will be celebrating with specials on Sunday, May 12. Skyview Restaurant will be serving up fabulous entrees, while The Grille is going to be the destination for anyone looking for a spectacular buffet-style offering. 

In addition to their Mother's Day special, Skyview Restaurant is also going to be hosting a Spring Wine Dinner on Tuesday, May 7 and a Turkey Buffet on Thursday, May 23.  

Not to be outdone, The Grille is staking its claim as the place to be on Memorial Day for a first-class summer BBQ Buffet featuring everything from Baby Back Ribs to Smoked Brisket.  

The Tiki Bar is going to be the place to be on the first weekend of the month with a huge party for the Kentucky Derby on May 4 that will be almost immediately followed by another wild party for Cinco de Mayo on May 5.  

In addition to all of the events that the people at the Activity Center have planned for the month of May, there are also some fantastic Mother's Day specials happening all month long at BellaVita Spa.  

Whether you are planning to hit all of the social events or are booking some private time for yourself at the spa, make sure you have a great month here at the Villages of Citrus Hills.